About North Cyprus

North Cyprus offers a high quality of life for everyone, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of some of the world's most stunning beaches. With 300 days of sunshine throughout the year, you can enjoy a peaceful and tranquil life. On this page you will find answers to various questions about living in Cyprus.

Where is Northern Cyprus and which countries are its neighbors?

Northern Cyprus is located 70 kilometers north of Turkey, 102 kilometers east of Syria, 165 kilometers from Lebanon, 233 kilometers southeast of Israel, 347 kilometers south of Egypt and shares a border with the Republic of Cyprus to the south. It is also 835 kilometers northwest of Greece. The capital of Northern Cyprus is Nicosia.

What is the area and population of Cyprus?

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has an area of 3,242 square kilometers and a population of approximately 350,000.

What is the climate in Cyprus?

Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate characterized by long and hot summers with temperatures reaching around 40 degrees Celsius in the hottest months. Winters are short, mild and rainy. The average annual rainfall is 500 millimeters. The sea water temperature remains warm throughout the year, averaging 16 degrees Celsius in winter.

Which languages are spoken in North Cyprus?

The most widely spoken language in Northern Cyprus is Turkish, with slight differences in speech and structure. English is also quite common as a second language.

Which currencies are used in Cyprus?

The official currency of Northern Cyprus is the Turkish Lira. However, the British Pound is generally used in real estate transactions.

What time zone is Cyprus in?

Northern Cyprus follows Eastern European Time (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2).

What are the units/standards of measurement in Northern Cyprus?

Common units of measurement for land and property sales in the TRNC include acre, acreage and square foot (ft2 or sq.ft.). The square meter (m2) equivalent can vary from 1 acre. Units of measurement in the TRNC are as follows:

• 1 Acre = 4 Sheds = 14,400 ft2 = 1,338 m2
• 1 Shed = 3,600 ft2 = 334.5 m2
• 1 m2 = 10.76 ft2

How can I travel to Northern Cyprus?

You can reach Northern Cyprus by air or sea. Most airlines in Turkey offer flights from Turkey to North Cyprus, which take about 1.5 hours. There are also ferry services to the ports of Famagusta and Kyrenia, which take approximately 3 hours. Alternatively, there are flights from various European countries to Larnaca Airport in the south of Cyprus. If this option is more convenient, you can rent a car or arrange a transfer vehicle to cross the border into Northern Cyprus.

How do you cross the border in Cyprus?

Since the lifting of restrictions on crossing the border in 2003, European citizens can cross the border at any time of the day and spend as much time as they want on both sides. There are currently 7 crossing points. The Ledra Palace and Lokmacı crossing points in Nicosia can be reached on foot, while Metehan (Kermia) in Nicosia, Beyarmudu (Pile) near the British bases at Dikelya, Yeşilırmak west of Lefke, Akyar in Famagusta on the Famagusta-Larnaca road and Bostancı near Guzelyurt can be reached by car.

Is there public transportation in North Cyprus?

Minibuses are the preferred means of public transportation in North Cyprus and operate between Kyrenia-Lefkosa, Kyrenia-Mağusa and Famagusta-Lefkosa. Intercity transportation is frequent during the day but decreases after 19:00 and is less frequent on weekends. As there is no public transportation to the south of Cyprus, it is necessary to rent a car or take a taxi. Also, renting a car is highly recommended as there is no public transportation to the historical sites.

Can I rent a car in Cyprus?

People with a British or international driving license can drive for the first 12 months of their stay in the TRNC. It is possible to cross the border by renting a car after landing at Larnaca Airport, but you will need to pay insurance at the border. Renting a car in Cyprus is usually cheaper than in other countries and tour operators, hotels and car rental companies can help you with this. If you need to rent a car, feel free to contact us for assistance.

What are the traffic rules in Northern Cyprus?

Traffic in Northern Cyprus flows on the left and international road signs are used. Vehicles must be insured when entering North Cyprus. Speed limits are 50 km/h inside residential areas and 65 km/h outside. The maximum speed limit for saloon vehicles outside the city is 100 km/h. Seat belts are mandatory and it is strictly forbidden to use cell phones and drink alcohol while driving.

How are phone calls made in Northern Cyprus?

To call landlines in Northern Cyprus from abroad, dial the international code +90, followed by 392 and the seven-digit local phone number. For cell phones, use 0090 or +90 followed by the 10-digit cell phone number. Cell phone numbers usually start with 533, 542 or 548. Calling cards or SIM cards can be purchased from phone booths and telecommunications offices.

What is the local cuisine like in Cyprus?

North Cyprus offers a wide range of dining options, from hotels with exclusive international menus to traditional Cypriot restaurants, family-run businesses, fine dining venues, fast food outlets, cafes, kiosks and more.

Where can I stay in Northern Cyprus?

When it comes to accommodation in North Cyprus, you have plenty of options. From boutique hotels to resorts and beachfront resorts to luxury hotels, there is a wide range of affordable, luxurious and comfortable accommodation options to choose from.

What is the voltage and type of electrical socket in Cyprus?

The electricity grid in Cyprus operates at 220/240 V AC, 50 Hz. Electrical sockets typically have square three-pin outlets, similar to those used in the UK.

What is education like in Cyprus?

The education system in Cyprus and Turkey offers a higher level of quality compared to many other European countries. For those who move to Cyprus with their families, there is a wide choice of schools providing quality education of international standards. There are currently 27 universities in the TRNC and the student population is approximately 120,000 and growing by around 10-12% each year.

Is it expensive living in Cyprus?

Living in Cyprus is generally more affordable than in many European and Mediterranean countries.

Can I bring my vehicle to Northern Cyprus?

It is possible to bring right-hand drive vehicles up to 5 years old to North Cyprus. Customs charges are calculated according to the engine power, age and weight of the vehicle. Before importing your vehicle, it is advisable to ask the authorized agent about the specific requirements.

What are the public holidays in Northern Cyprus?

Public holidays or National Holidays in North Cyprus are as follows. The dates of religious holidays change every year:
New Year: January 1
Children and Youth Day: April 23
Labor Day: May 1st
Youth and Sports Day: May 19
Day of Peace and Freedom: July 20
Victory Day: August 30
Turkish Independence Day: October 29
TRNC Independence Day: November 15

What are the emergency phone numbers in Northern Cyprus?

Ambulance: 112
Police: 155
Fire Department: 199
Forest Fires: 177

How are the goods transported to the TRNC?

You can send second-hand (used) goods from many countries to Northern Cyprus by sea, the average transit time is 3-6 weeks. All kinds of household goods can be transported with a one-time tax exemption. Customs duty must be paid for brand new goods.

Will I need a visa for Northern Cyprus?

Citizens of the United Kingdom and the European Union do not need a visa to visit Northern Cyprus; a valid passport is sufficient. A visa is required for those wishing to reside in Northern Cyprus. Citizens of the United Kingdom and major EU countries receive a standard 3-month visa on entry. This can be extended if you plan to live in Cyprus permanently and apply for a residence permit. We recommend that you work with a lawyer for your visa application to ensure that the necessary steps are taken in the correct order.

How can I qualify for TRNC residency and citizenship?

To live in North Cyprus you need to apply for a residence permit. Upon arrival you will automatically be issued a 3-month tourist visa. If you choose to continue your stay or purchase property after your visa expires, you can apply for a temporary residence permit from the Immigration Department in TRNC. In order to obtain citizenship in the TRNC, you must have resided in Cyprus for 5 or more consecutive years.

How can I get a residence permit in Northern Cyprus?

Upon request or at the discretion of the local authorities, you are allowed to stay in the TRNC for up to 3 months without a special permit. If you want to buy property, you can apply for a TRNC residence permit. Foreign nationals are required to obtain a "Property Purchase Permit" in order to purchase real estate in Northern Cyprus. Once you have a property purchase certificate, you can start the permitting procedures in Northern Cyprus which usually takes 3 to 6 months to complete.